I Can See Clearly Now: Part 2

By AnnetteDashofy

Two weeks ago, I wrote about my first cataract surgery and the challenges I faced leading up to the second surgery. A little over a week ago, I had that second surgery and now truly can see clearly.

Still not allowed to wear makeup,
but I can SEE!

Second Eye Syndrome:

For those of you about to have your cataracts removed, this is another tidbit they may not tell you about. I learned of it the day of my second surgery. Just when I thought I knew exactly what to expect, they informed me I was wrong.

It started when I spoke with the anesthesiologist prior to heading into the operating room. I’d had no memory of the first surgery. I remembered being rolled into the room, and the next thing I recalled was being asked what kind of snack I wanted. I was fully dressed with no idea whether I’d done it myself or been assisted by the nurse. Honestly, I was fine with that. Wake me when you’re done. Ah, but it doesn’t work that way. The anesthesiologist told me it was common for a patient to have much clearer memories of the second procedure.

What? No. Please, give me temporary amnesia!

He was right. They wheeled me into the operating room. I thought, okay, I can black out now. Instead, I was conscious the whole time. In the week since the operation, the details have faded, like a vivid dream that gradually drifts away. The good news for anyone heading into cataract surgery and is squeamish…I never saw them coming at me with a scalpel. I felt no pain, no cutting, no pressure. All I saw was three white lights. The surgeon had said they’d look like marshmallows. And they did.

The next time I heard of Second Eye Syndrome was when the nurse wheeled me out to my car and I complained about my eye really burning, something I hadn’t noticed the first time. She told me it was common for a patient to feel more pain or feel it more intensely on the second eye. Perfectly normal. Oh, goody.

I’ve since read up on this syndrome. According to the article, patients who breeze through the first surgery with no pain, often go into the second one without the stress or concern they’d experienced prior to the first. But then they remember more of the surgery, like I did, and feel more discomfort.

Here is where my experience parted company with the article. I did feel some minor discomfort following my first surgery. Other than that initial burning, which cleared up by the time I arrived home, I’ve had a much easier go of it this time. Less discomfort. Less light sensitivity.

And my brain is overjoyed that both eyes are back in sync.

So yes, there is definitely such a thing as Second Eye Syndrome. Your experience with the second eye won’t be the same as it was with the first. But it won’t necessarily be worse either.

No matter. It’s worth it. The pain and discomfort are fleeting.

And the improvement in vision is amazing.